Lacer Skew  

Top view - α angle

Side view - β angle

The Lacer Skew's cutting edge is sharpened using a platform (retaining the same edge shape), and honed using a diamond stone. (There is a different page in this handbook for traditional skew chisels.)


Alan Lacer is most identified with this tool, and he recommends honing with a stone of 500 - 600 grit. He further recommends honing both sides of the cutting edge and also both sides.

Alan's sharpening instructions are on the Hamlett Craft Tools site.


The recommended Tormek jig is the SVD-110 Tool Rest.


Honing a skew chisel before use is recommended.

Those who say it's impossible should not get in the way of those doing the impossible.

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General Guidelines
β α Comments
40° 70° Alan Lacer recommends 70° for a point-to-point angle (α).

Notes & Comments

Information regarding Grindstones

If grinding this on a high speed grinder or sander, be sure to manage the temperature so that the temper is not lost due to overheating.

High Carbon Steel Temperature control is critical for high carbon steel. Tempering will be lost in the steel if heated until it is blue (~550°F / 300°C). Cool by dipping as needed in water.

High Speed Steel

Cool by dipping as needed in water.

Steel with Carbide Insert DO NOT cool by dipping in water. This will cause the carbide to crack due to shocks.

It is also recommended to use a high grit wheel for sharpening carbide as lower grits can cause cracks in the edge leading to it being far more crack-ridden and brittle. (Lower grits can be used for shaping the edge -- see also, Grindstones and Other Sharpening Media - Quick Selection Guide.)


More Information

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